Skopje, 6 September 2023 (MIA) – We find ourselves in a unique context, in which due to the geopolitical circumstances and the need to ensure the stability of the European continent, the EU and the international democratic community need us, just as we need them, said Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski at an event Thursday marking 32 years since the country’s independence.

The Prime Minister said “the herald of freedom, September 8, on the eve of this great and significant holiday of Macedonian statehood – the Independence Day, calls for a new confident step forward.”

“Thirty-two years ago, in 1991, with a majority of over 95 percent of the citizens, the will for an independent Macedonian state of the generations before us, was fulfilled, a will that resounds from Ilinden 1903 and ASNOM 1944. Thirty-two years later we face the will of 80 percent of the citizens, who are calling for life in Europe, within the European Union, but in their birth country of North Macedonia,” said Kovachevski.

“The generations of today,” he said, “have an obligation to respond to that call on this September 8, which asks us to continue the centuries-long idea for progress.”

“This is an opportunity that comes at a time when North Macedonia is an internationally established country, a country that confidently steps on the path to the EU, with ensured borders, with a recognized Macedonian language and identity, a country which serves as an example for a successful multi-ethnic democracy, which contributes to regional and European peace, as a free and sovereign country and a NATO member,” stressed Kovachevski.

The event was attended by members of the Government, representative of institutions, academic community, businessmen, diplomatic corps.

It began with the national anthem and a historical overview by Aleksandar Litovski from the Institute of National History.

The event launched the Independence Day activities organized by the Government, which are set to continue on Friday with cultural events, promotions, sports activities.